**James Van Der Beek Announces Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis, Shares Battle Details**

James Van Der Beek, the well-known "Dawson's Creek" actor, has revealed his ongoing struggle with colorectal cancer. The 47-year-old made this public disclosure on Sunday, bringing to light his personal health journey.

Van Der Beek explained to People magazine, "I have colorectal cancer. I've been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family." Colorectal cancer, as per the Cleveland Clinic, originates from growths in the colon's inner lining and can present symptoms such as blood in the stool, alterations in bowel habits, abdominal pain, bloating, unexplained weight loss, vomiting, and fatigue. Surgery remains the primary treatment for this type of cancer. Encouragingly, data from the U.S. National Cancer Institute indicates that more than 90% of individuals treated for early-stage colorectal cancer survive five years beyond diagnosis.

Van Der Beek, who has been married to Kimberly Brook since 2010, is a father to six children: Olivia (14), Joshua (12), Annabel (10), Emilia (8), Gwendolyn (6), and Jeremiah (3). The family has faced significant challenges, including two pregnancy losses before welcoming their youngest child, Jeremiah, in October 2021. Recalling a miscarriage in 2019, which occurred while he was a contestant on "Dancing with the Stars," Van Der Beek shared the emotional impact, "It was just so much pain, and it was so unexpected because everything was right, everything was fairy tale. Everything was coming together perfectly."

The couple endured another heartbreaking miscarriage in June 2020. Reflecting on this, Van Der Beek expressed on Instagram how such experiences imparted profound lessons to their family, even though they never got to meet the soul they were preparing to welcome.

James Van Der Beek gained fame with his portrayal of Dawson Leery on "Dawson's Creek," which aired from 1998 to 2003, alongside co-stars Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams, Joshua Jackson, Mary-Margaret Humes, John Wesley Shipp, and Busy Philipps. His recent appearances include roles in "CSI: Cyber," "Modern Family," and "Pose." Fans might also remember his participation in "Dancing with the Stars" in 2019, where he finished in fifth place.

The actor’s openness about his diagnosis and treatment reflects a journey of resilience supported by his family, highlighting both his professional achievements and personal battles.